Oedipus the King and Antigone

Paper Summary:

This paper analyzes the deeper inferences that Sophocles portrays through the vivid character history of the main characters in his "Three Theban Plays." It describes the characters and the development of the character Oedipus as the model for the tragic hero in "Oedipus the King," "Antigone" and "Oedipus Colonus." The paper concludes that the life of suffering is the underlying theme in the story of Oedipus and Antigone.

From the Paper:

"It is also important to note that 'innocence' is not rewarded with an escape from any type of suffering. As in the case with Jocasta and Ismene, who play passive roles, both experience an element of suffering. While many view Jocasta as more a tragic character than Ismene, it is important to note that Ismene is governed by fear of man, rather than will of the gods; serving as the perfect foil to her older sister Antigone.
"Ultimately, the life of suffering is the underlying theme in the story of Oedipus and Antigone. In both plays, the hero's suffer extreme consequences for the choices laid upon them, regardless of their favor to the gods. In this sense, suffering is not only a consequence of choice, but also an inherent part of life. Sophocles portrays this theme perfectly through his tragic hero's and characters, laying the groundwork for many tragedians in the future."

Sample of Sources Used:

• Bates, Alfred. "The Antigone." The Drama: Its History, Literature and Influence on Civilization. 1.1 (1906): 112- 123.
• Carel, Havi Hannah. "Moral and Epistemic Ambiguity in Oedipus Rex". Janus Head. London: University of West England, 2000, 95-117.
• Sophocles. The Three Theban Plays Translated by Robert Fagles. New York: Penguin Classics, 1984.

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